Is This the New Google Pixel XL 2? (FIRST LOOK!)

The Google Pixel and Pixel XL were turning points for Alphabet’s smartphone business. The Nexus moniker was dropped, as was the emphasis on a no-frills, hardcore Android experience. The phones were great but were quickly overshadowed by the bezel-less marvels that are the LG G6 and Samsung Galaxy S8. With our first sneak peak at the next generation Pixel XL 2, that could all change!

Several things stand out right away, looking at this render from Android Police. First and foremost, the screen! The bezels have been shrunk down to almost nothing, with only a slight forehead and chin left. While the edges of the display look reminiscent of the Galaxy S8, rumours state that this will not be a curved screen. It should be a 6″ AMOLED display, with an interesting 2:1 aspect ratio. Google commissioned LG to replicate the ease with which one can handle the G6, despite having such a large display. This smartphone will be taller and less wide than the original.

Around back, the glass top “window” is making a return. While it was a love-it-or-hate-it kind of thing the first time, it seems like Google is making it a trademark design feature of the Pixel. The fingerprint reader now sits below the glass bit, which seems to be a little shorter as well. The back of the device still has a slight curve, which should contribute to making it even easier to hold.

Some other quick notes! The rear camera looks like a pretty large sensor, considerably bigger than the first iteration. There aren’t any antenna bands – at least not visible. Also, the speaker grille at the top of the front is very wide. It might team up with a bottom-firing speaker for stereo audio, but no guarantee there.

Lastly, rumours say that this will be a squeezable device, like the HTC U11. We will see what the feature might work with. Perhaps Google Assistant?

What do you geeks think of this render of the Google Pixel XL 2? Or Pixel 2 XL? Or Pixel 2017… whatever. Will it be able to hold its own against the upcoming 10th anniversary iPhone? Sound off in the comments!